CTA seeks bids for $203-million Wilson Red Line station construction

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) has issued an Invitation for Bids, seeking a general contractor for the $203-million reconstruction of the Wilson Red Line station. Work is tentatively scheduled to begin this fall and continue through 2016.

This project will transform Wilson into a reconfigured, accessible station that will offer connections between the Red and Purple lines. The project will also improve the appearance and pedestrian environment on Broadway and Wilson by removing some 'L' structure support columns from streets and sidewalks.

"Rebuilding the Wilson station is a critical component to rejuvenating the Red Line, the backbone of the CTA rail system and is part of Mayor Emanuel's Building a New Chicago infrastructure program," said CTA President Forrest Claypool. "A revitalized Wilson station will strengthen the historic Uptown neighborhood with an attractive, modern station that provides improved transit options and connections for CTA customers and generates new retail and related economic development, similar to the benefits the South Side will gain from the $240-million reconstruction of the 95th Street Terminal that begins next year."

The contractor selected for the 36-month Wilson project will be responsible the reconstruction of a new stationhouse, construction of two auxiliary entrances and the restoration of the 1923 terra cotta facade and clock tower at the former station entrance located at the northwest corner of Wilson and Broadway.

Contractor bids will be accepted through mid-June.

CTA anticipates selecting a contractor bid and submitting it to the Chicago Transit Board for approval in August 2013. Following completion of a project environmental review, CTA could issue a "notice to proceed" to the selected contractor as early as September 2013.

Most of the project funding ($170 million) comes from Gov. Pat Quinn's Illinois Jobs Now! program, with an additional $30 million of funding provided by the Federal Transit Administration and $3 million in tax-increment financing.